Overview

The patient care team on Medical/Surgical and Progressive Care inpatient units consists of a Registered Nurse (RN) and a Clinical Assistant (CA). Matched for a shift, this team provides care for four to six patients depending on unit and shift. CAs are an integral part of hands-on patient care. Working under the direction and supervision of a RN, they are responsible for taking and recording vital signs, performing designated tests and collecting patient samples, and supporting patients in all activities of daily living. CAs meet patients and their families as they enter the unit, welcoming and acclimating them to the unit. CAs interact with unit staff, physicians, and other hospital department personnel. It is critical that CAs provide timely and accurate communication, accurate documentation and maintain a harmonious, team oriented, customer friendly environment. CAs must be able to function competently in a computerized medical setting. The three principal duties of this position are: • Patient Care: works under the direction of RN Partner to provide responsive, service oriented patient care • Testing: conducts various patient tests and specimen collection as directed by RN Partner • Clerical: functions as the “front door” to the unit providing customer service oriented communication and clerical support.

b. Meets with RN Partner formally at start and end of shift for report and assignment information, participates with RN Partner in bedside hand-off of care and hourly rounding, and collaborates throughout the shift with RN Partner on progress and care of patient.

c. Documents and communicates care in an accurate, consistent and timely manner to RN Partner and or Charge Nurse to include any changes observed in condition or behavior of patient.

d. Collaborates in the provision of ancillary support services such as respiratory therapy, PT/OT, speech therapy, etc.

Qualifications

High school graduate or equivalent work experience including ability to read, write and comprehend medical terminology.

Previous experience as a nurse aide or have satisfactorily completed a nurse aide training program or other relevant clinical experience that required ambulating, bathing and feeding of patients. If no current CNA certificate, must be able to show competence prior to starting.

Willingness to use positive communication skill while performing job duties.

Ability to perform detailed assignments, work under pressure, and relate to patients, hospital staff, physicians, and visitors.